I too am in formation for the Permanent Diaconate for the AOD. Since I haven't seen you at formation I'm wondering if you are in the program or are in discernment?

Peace...

I was accepted into the program last year, but Deacon Ron and I decided that I would be best to join next years class.

I had a lot of business travel last winter\spring so I had to drop all my classes. There was no point in joining a formation 'class' when there was zero chance of being ordained with any of them.

So technically, I am an Aspirant and taking classes this year, but I have been relieved of my obligation to attend Formation Days (though I was at the Christmas party at Guardian Angels). So I will, in effect, have a 2 year Aspirancy.

DW and I were at the Couple's Retreat a few weeks ago as well (very nice, BTW)

Thanks so much for your informative post! Your words of encouragement were exactly what I needed to hear. At this point, I'm not sure if the Lord is calling me to become a deacon, but I know he's calling me to discern whether it's right for me.

I'm glad to hear that it can work with younger children. I have 7 year old twin girls, both of whom have a degree of autism and I have a lot of responsibilities at home. My wife is very supportive of the fact that I may become a deacon some day, but I don't want to neglect my primary vocation as husband and father.

A parish ministry such as reader is something that would probably suit me well at this time. Even though I would very much like to volunteer in a hospital someday, that wouldn't be too practical for me right now.

I have been hesitant to approach my pastor about discerning my vocation, because I really feel unworthy at this point. I'm kind of embarrassed asking questions about the permanent diaconate when I'm not involved in any ministries. I now see that I should talk to him about it so I can start to prepare for the possibility, even if it is several years in the future. I will also contact the Diocese of Trenton (I'm in N.J.) and see if they offer any discernment guidelines.

Wow, I'm so glad to have read this thread today. I'm over here in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia (neighbors!) and am at nearly the *exact* same point of discernment as what you have described!

I've found that all of the same recommendations that people are making here are similar to those that I've heard from others too (e.g. check out www.deaconsplace.info). It's all good advice. I was asking the same questions that you are now asking about 3 months ago. Since then, I too have begun a regular prayer, Liturgy of the Hours, and Mass attendance routine.

I am fortunate to work on a Catholic college campus, where I now read at Mass, minister the Precious Blood of the Eucharist, and am participating as much as time allows in service and community groups.

I'm at the point now where I am starting to discuss more seriously my vocation with both the chaplain on campus and my pastor. I hope to be in contact with the Archdiocese soon to inquire about formation programs and required study.

I have 3 young children as well (7, 2, and 8 wks) and am going through the same predicament of questioning whether balancing family life and religious life will be achievable.

I'm not exactly sure how I might be able to accomplish this, but if God wants me -- I will go. He'll take care of the details. I think that's the single most important thing I've learned so far - trust in God. He will lead you.

If you're interested, I'd be glad to talk more with you about this sometime. Being in such similar situations, it might be helpful to share thoughts, concerns, prayers, etc. further.

God Bless and I will pray for God's grace to reach you where you are on your journey, and to guide you as you continue your path towards His will.

Thanks to everyone for the replies. I've made an appointment to speak with my pastor about getting involved in some parish ministries. I've also contacted the Diocese and they have sent me some literature and invited me to a discernment seminar.

Please keep me in your prayers as I continue to discern the will of God for my life.

I have 3 young children as well (7, 2, and 8 wks) and am going through the same predicament of questioning whether balancing family life and religious life will be achievable.

.

Just keep repeating to yourself "I can do all things in Him who strengthens me" Make it your motto!

The diaconate community and my pastor have been a real help
with all the formation duties.

Several of the other candidates have daughters of babysitting age, (free of charge) and my pastor regularly sends over Confirmation candidates to do their Service work helping out my wife while I am at class or on a Retreat.

The local KofC Council is also a real help (again babysitting aged daughters!)

Don't think you can or should try to do it alone. Christ instituted His Church as a community. Use it, it's His was of Strengthening you!

I'm new to Catholic Answers and this whole manner of communication, so thank you for making this seem worthwhile.

I Googled into your conversation string because I've been contemplating whether I should pursue service as a Deacon.

The thought keeps popping to mind, and I'm not sure whose it is, God's or mine, but I am sure I should keep inquiring.

So.....

Please say a prayer for me, and if you have a practical tip or two for a husband, dad of five, and NYC commuter (other than "are you nuts?"), I'm all ears!

Mark

Hi Mark,

The thought of becoming a permanent deacon kept popping into my head and finally I spoke to my pastor about it. He gave me some good ideas and as a result I became involved in my parish nursing home ministry. I would highly recommend speaking to a priest or deacon about your potential vocation.

In my case, my kids are still young so the time's not right for me to enter the diaconate formation program. Right now I'm just proceeding at my own pace and discerning "unofficially".